Your True Self: Illuminated

A Creative Process Guided by Authenticity, Connection, and Flow

Setting the Intention: My process has structure, but it’s not a script. It’s a flexible framework—a way of creating space where authenticity can naturally unfold. Every shoot is different. We follow the flow of the moment, guided by presence, connection, and what feels most true.

Setting the Stage for Authenticity

For years, I explored photography by wholeheartedly following the advice of others—studying the techniques of successful photographers and learning from their styles. While I gained valuable skills, something always felt off—like I was molding myself to fit someone else’s vision instead of honoring my own.

That realization changed everything. I began to understand how my mind works and what I need to thrive creatively. I found that photography isn’t about performance or rigid formulas. It’s about creating a space where both my subject and I feel safe, connected, and free to express ourselves authentically.

From that point on, I developed a process that aligns with my strengths and thoughtfully supports my challenges. While not every session follows this structure exactly, the intention behind it shapes everything I do:

  • Authentically Intuitive – Present and grounded, capturing real emotions as they unfold.
  • Deeply Intentional – Crafted with purpose, light, and composition.
  • Rooted in Connection – More than just images; it’s an experience of being truly seen.

If I want authenticity from the people I photograph, I have to start by embodying it myself. Photography, for me, is more than a service—it’s a considered practice built on presence, care, and truth. I’d love to bring that to your project and create something meaningful together.

Brian McDonnell | Photographer

Phase 1: Getting to Know You and Your Story

Before your shoot, we’ll set up a time to talk—could be over coffee, on a call, or wherever you feel most at ease.. It’s a chance for us to connect, chat about what’s important to you, and start shaping a direction that feels like you.

One of the things I’ll probably ask is:

“When you imagine yourself in your element—totally at ease and fully yourself—what do you see?”

We’ll use that image as our creative compass.

From there, we’ll explore a few things:

  • What kind of energy or feeling you’d like the photos to carry
  • Where you feel most like yourself—nature, home, studio, city, etc.
  • If there’s anything you’re unsure or nervous about (totally normal, by the way)

You don’t need to have answers all figured out. This isn’t a planning meeting—it’s more like laying down the emotional and creative foundation. We’re just gathering threads so that, when the day comes, it all feels familiar and grounded.

We’ll also sketch out a simple starting point for the shoot—something natural and easy to step into. That way, we don’t start with a blank page—we start with clarity.

Phase 2: The Photoshoot

Through a lot of self-reflection, I’ve learned how to create conditions where I can be fully present and connected. That clarity helps me drop into flow—and it helps you feel seen, supported, and comfortable in front of the camera.

I’ve found that when we both feel at ease, the best work happens naturally. That’s why I build in space—time to slow down, explore, and not feel rushed. A couple of hours is ideal.

1. Connection and Intentions

We begin gently, checking in with anything new that’s come up since our initial talk. As we chat, I observe the space—the light, the mood, and how everything interacts.

2. Behind the Scenes

You ease into your world, and I ease into mine. I observe without directing, capturing you in your element. This allows early awkwardness to fall away and gives me space to notice the subtle details—gestures, moments, objects—that tell your story.

3. Portraits and Headshots

Once we’re in a rhythm, we begin refining. We might adjust elements, shift poses, and explore different emotions or expressions. It’s collaborative, fluid, and intentional. If you’re looking for headshots, we’ll capture those too.

4. Spontaneity and Play

When we’ve built trust and flow, we let go. This is the moment for play, bold ideas, unexpected energy. It’s often where the most alive and authentic moments emerge—when we stop trying to get it “right” and just explore what feels real.

Intentional Authenticity

At the heart of my work is a guiding philosophy I call Intentional Authenticity. It’s about showing up as yourself—and making deliberate choices that elevate that truth.

Authenticity isn’t just about being “natural.” And intentionality isn’t just about planning. It’s the combination of the two:

  • Recognition: Noticing the moments when you feel most like yourself.
  • Reflection: Understanding what makes those moments feel true.
  • Refinement: Using light, environment, and emotion to elevate that truth.
  • Purpose: Ensuring that every choice we make honors your essence.

This is how I work behind the camera—and it’s how I invite you to show up in front of it.

Because when we both step into that space with clarity and care, what we create together will be something deeply honest—and uniquely yours.

Through my journey of understanding how I experience the world and creating systems to navigate my life and work, I’ve gathered a collection of tools that I believe are essential for anyone finding their way in life. These tools aren’t mine—I’ve simply done the work to collect and organize them—and I want to share them with anyone embarking on their own journey. They hold deep meaning for me, and I hope they inspire and support you in your path forward.

“The Place To Improve The World
Is First In One’s Own Heart and Head and Hand,
And Then Work Outward From There”

Robert M. Pirsig